New sports pitch damaged by 'senseless vandalism'

A fire has damaged a community sports pitch just days after it opened in what a council has called a "senseless act of vandalism".

The new multi-use games area (MUGA) opened in Bridgwater in Somerset last week, thanks to thousands of pounds donated by the Hinkley Point C Community Fund and the Hamp Community Association.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said firefighters put out a fire in Mansfield Park on Monday evening after receiving reports of "young people setting fire to items and throwing aerosols".

Bridgwater Town Council said it is hoping to repair the facility "as quickly as possible".

Councillor Tim Mander, chair of the amenities committee, said: "We are appalled by this senseless act of vandalism.

"We will do everything in our power to restore the MUGA as quickly as possible and ensure it remains a safe place for everyone to enjoy."

He said the official opening by the mayor had been a "wonderful day" with lots of children playing in the new space.

"It's for the community, and to think that some people within the community are wantonly damaging a new facility that is there to give kids stuff to do, it's really disappointing," he said.

"I've seen some of the reactions on social media, and everyone is equally annoyed and disgusted by what's happened. It's very hard to take."

He said the council might need to consider installing extra CCTV in future, which would cost more money.

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